Make Someone's Holiday Happy & Bright

The giving season is upon us and Hillsborough County has many ways to give back

Whether you want to make a difference in a child's life or a pet's life, Hillsborough County has many ways for you to give back to the community this holiday season. Several different Hillsborough County departments are asking for donations to help residents and pets who aren't able to celebrate the holidays on their own.

Those wishing to contribute financially can make checks or money orders payable to: Hillsborough County Children Services BOCC. Checks can be mailed to: Department of Children Services, 3191 Clay Mangum Lane, Tampa, FL 33618.

Families

Many families in Hillsborough County struggle during the holidays due to other financial obligations.

Donors can bring the unwrapped gifts to Hillsborough County Center lobby by Thursday, Dec. 19.

Pets

Help the Pet Resource Center save the community's neediest animals by donating items and services to benefit resident shelter animals, pets in foster care, and the Safety Net Program that keeps pets from being turned into the shelter by families in crisis.

Here are a few ideas for appropriate gifts:

Quick-snap dog collars (medium, large, XL sizes)

Stretch 'n Scratch cat scratchers

Sturdy leashes (4 to 6 foot, no retractables)

Cat treats and cat treat dispensers

Kong brand toys

Milk Bones brand treats

Ping-pong balls and other waterproof toys for cats

Dry and canned pet food

Peanut butter

Donors can bring donations to Hillsborough County Center lobby by Thursday, Dec. 19..

Seniors

There are many seniors in Hillsborough County who struggle during the holiday season. Hillsborough County's Aging Services is collecting gifts that Hillsborough County staff and volunteers will hand-deliver to caregivers and seniors in need.